What is the primary purpose of a fire company size-up?

The primary purpose of a fire company size-up is to evaluate fire conditions and risks. Size-up is a critical process that firefighters undertake upon arrival at an incident scene. This assessment provides vital information about the fire's behavior, the structural integrity of the building, potential hazards, and the overall situation involving the incident.

By accurately evaluating these conditions, the incident commander can make informed decisions regarding attack strategies, resource allocation, and safety measures. Understanding the risks associated with the fire and the environment allows the fire company to prioritize actions effectively to protect life, property, and enhance operational effectiveness.

While determining water supply needs, assessing the need for mutual aid, and identifying personnel assignments are important elements of fire response, they are secondary to the fundamental objective of understanding the immediate fire conditions and risks. This foundational information helps inform all subsequent actions and responses by the fire company.